Earth & Pine Outdoors

We want to take our guests on a journey to discover the fascinating world of geology and the processes that create our present landscape.

Come with us as we link the past to the present and along the way, discover the creatures and plants that call the Rocky Mountains home. Owner and guide Gabrielle Abernethy, is a geoscientist and member of the Interpretive Guides Association.

Need some #unforgettable inspiration?

FrequentlyAskedQuestions

You will need good footwear (closed toe and sturdy) and clothing suitable for the weather. For Grotto Canyon hikes footwear should also be waterproof. Mountain weather can be highly unpredictable and change very quickly. Please ensure everyone in your group has appropriate rain/outer jacket.

Please bring a bottle of water for every person, at least 1 litre on a hot day. A light snack is also recommended.

For Grassi Lakes hikes,if you do not have your own vehicle, it is recommended to take a taxi to the Grassi Lakes trailhead. The trailhead is 5 kilometers from downtown Canmore just past the Nordic Center.

For Grotto Canyon hikes you will meet your guide at the Grotto Canyon trailhead 11km East of Canmore.

You will gain 175m of elevation over approximately a kilometre and a half distance but we will be hiking at a mellow pace with numerous stops along the way. Expect uneven, uphill terrain throughout the hike, with a steep switchback including a stone stairway with wooden handrails. Portions of the trail hug a cliff so caution will be needed. At the lakes, we will have time to soak in the beautiful scenery and your guide will show you interesting features of this idyllic spot.

Grotto Canyon

This is an easy to moderate trail with minimal elevation gain of 100m over 2 km and returning along the same route. We will be hiking at a mellow pace with numerous stops along the way. The trail initially follows an easy path beside a small power line before entering a narrow canyon with vertical rock walls. We will be criss-crossing a creek along our journey up the canyon to a waterfall. You can expect uneven, slippery terrain so sturdy, waterproof shoes are strongly encouraged.

Yes, all participants will need to complete a liability waiver. We recommend you review the waiver before booking your tour, but you will sign the waiver once you have arrived at the trailhead and have been briefed by your guide. Any minors must have their waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian before participating on the tour.

Yes, all participants will be required to carry a hard hat until we reach the rockfall hazard area. There is an optional 250m scramble above the second lake, along the base of a cliff, to see rock outcropping of an ancient reef, to visit a shallow cave, and to see pictographs. This portion of the trail is a rockfall hazard and depending on conditions (e.g. bighorn sheep on slope or high winds causing loose rock to fall), may be omitted from the hike.